You have sustained serious injuries and considerable losses in a car crash in Tucson. Regardless of whether you share the fault or not, you should seek legal advice and representation. Arizona is a fault state, and you could hold the at-fault driver responsible for their action and claim compensation for your losses. If you are looking for a dependable and experienced Tucson auto accident attorney, below are some tips to consider.
Watch out for the red flags
Car accident attorneys can evaluate the worth of a claim, but they cannot guarantee outcomes. Many aspects of accident claims and lawsuits cannot be predicted in advance, and if a lawyer promises a certain amount in settlement, it is clearly a red flag. Steer clear of attorneys who want an immediate payment because personal injury lawyers usually work on a contingency fee. The lawyer can only ask and get a fee if they win. A lot also depends on the circumstances, and it is best to discuss financials in advance.
Ask these questions to an accident attorney
You are a prospective client, and you should know if an attorney can handle your accident claim. Here are some questions to ask –
How often do you take accident claims and lawsuits in your practice?
What are other types of personal injury cases that you specialize in?
How many attorneys work for this law firm? Will you work on my case personally?
What is your contingency fee?
Can you help me with other expenses of the case?
Are you capable and experienced enough to represent me at trial?
How frequently do you go to trial for auto accident cases?
Can you share a few client references?
How long will it take to settle my claim?
How much can I expect in the final settlement?
Below are some common mistakes to avoid after an accident
Not calling a lawyer. Most people believe that they can manage everything without legal advice, which could be a grave mistake. Talk to a Tucson auto accident attorney soon after the crash to understand the merits and demerits of your claim. Your lawyer will also advise on your rights.
Not calling the police. If the accident caused significant property damage, injuries or led to someone’s death, you have to inform the police. Don’t let the other driver or anyone else talk you out of that. Also, if you can, consider asking for a report from the police officer.
Not gathering evidence. The accident scene has significant evidence. Take photos and videos of damaged vehicles, your injuries, and everything else, as long as you are feeling physically okay to do. The evidence can come in handy to prove your claim and help your lawyer investigate the accident.
As for the attorney’s fee, most lawyers charge 25-40% of the final settlement as their fee, but it can vary on the specifics of the case and the lawyer’s experience. You need to consider if the attorney has time to take the case. As a client, you must have direct access to your lawyer at all times. Also, ask your attorney how your fault (if any) can impact your settlement.
To compare accident attorneys in Tucson, you can also check online reviews. Check if there are specific complaints or bad reviews about a lawyer and call the references.
This post is originally published at Florida Independent.